Quality of life in multiple sclerosis: a Kuwaiti MSQOL-54 experience.

Objective: We compared the quality of life (QOL) self-ratings of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) patients with those of the general population; and assessed the association of demographic, clinical, and caregiver variables with patients' QOL.

Methods: Consecutive clinic attendees were assessed with MSQOL-54, Beck's Depression Inventory, and Expanded Disability Status Scale. Caregivers rated their impression of patients' QOL and attitudes to patients' illness.

Results: Of 170 patients (35.5% M, 64.5% F), 85.3% had RRMS and 14.7% PMS. RRMS had higher QOL domain scores (P < 0.001). Patients had lower QOL than controls (P < 0.001). Depression was the commonest significant covariate of QOL domains. After controlling for depression and disability, differences between the MS groups were less significant. Predictors of overall QOL were caregiver impression of patient's QOL, depression, and treatment side effects.

Conclusions: Programs that address depression, disability, the impact of treatment side effects, caregiver attitudes and education should enhance QOL outcomes.